These lists has been compiled by Volunteers serving in [[{{#explode:Packing list for Madagascar| |3}} {{#explode:Packing list for Madagascar| |4}} {{#explode:Packing list for Madagascar| |5}}]] based on their experience. Use it as an informal guide in making your own list, bearing in mind that experience is individual. There is no perfect list!

This list has been compiled by Volunteers serving in Madagascar and is based on their experience. Use it as an informal guide in making your own list, bearing in mind that experience is individual. There is no perfect list! You obviously cannot bring everything we mention, so consider those items that make the most sense to you personally and professionally. You can always have things sent to you later. As you decide what to bring, keep in mind that you have a 100-pound weight restriction on baggage. (Luggage should be tough, lightweight, lockable, and easy to carry.) And remember, you can get almost everything you need in Madagascar.

Shorts and other clothes for lounging around (e.g., drawstring pajama pants or doctor’s scrubs).

For women, dresses or skirts (below the knee for teachers, with no slits above the knee and not tight-fitting), including a dressy outfit

For women, cotton slips (short and long)

For men, a button-down shirt and tie for special occasions

Plenty of underwear, bras (including a sports bra), and socks

Belt

Money belt

Quick-drying shorts for biking

Note: The three ideal characteristics of clothing in Madagascar are dark colors, many pockets, and the ability to withstand rain and mud splatters (i.e., quick drying and breathable). In general, one should dress conservatively. It does get cold, so bring some warm clothes. Do not bring a lot of clothes, just three or four outfits for staging and the beginning of training; you can buy just about anything in local markets.

Enough deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste, sunscreen, lotion, etc. to last you through training

A few toothbrushes

Tampons without applicators (e.g., o.b.); a basic selection of pads and tampons without applicators are available through the Peace Corps. If a specific brand/ type is preferred, please have them sent to you.

Solar bulbs or/and solar power panels. With a power panel you can charge your cell or any other low-voltage USB-port devices, such as IPod, Kindle, etc. All you need is sun, and that's plentiful. You may want to check the Nokero and Solio products. Peace Corps Volunteers get a 25%-50% discount on Nokero products when they join Market for Change [1].

Duct tape

Scissors

Good envelopes

Glue

Dictionary

U.S. stamps for sending letters with travelers (and for mailing in student loan deferments, taxes, etc)

Battery-powered alarm clock

Towels, preferably of the quick-drying camping variety.

Sewing kit

Sunglasses

Cash (which you can keep in the safe at the Peace Corps office)

A voided check or deposit slip from your U.S. bank account

Games (Scrabble, cards, chess, Frisbee, etc.)

Walkman/iPod with favorite music

Musical instruments (harmonica, guitar, etc.)

Videotapes of some favorite or new movies to share at the Volunteer house in the capital